HRC55 - NB8 statement - High Commissioner on the Democratic Republic of Congo

Human Rights Council - 55th Session

Item 10: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report of High Commissioner on the Democratic Republic of Congo

Statement by Iceland on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries

2 April 2024

Mr President,

I make this statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic countries. Thank you, High Commissioner, and the Team of International Experts for your report.

The escalation of armed violence in eastern DRC, and related violations of human rights and of international humanitarian law, including attacks against civilians and conflict related sexual violence, is of serious concern. The situation, caused primarily by the armed group M23, as well as other armed groups, severely impacts the human rights of individuals in the DRC. These groups must cease all hostilities, withdraw from the areas they occupy and disarm. All states should stop any support to these armed groups.

We are closely following the appeal trial of the murders of UN experts Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp in Kasaï Central in 2017, as well as the investigation into the disappearance of their four Congolese companions. The legal process remains vital and has our full support. We encourage the continued cooperation between the Congolese authorities and the UN-mandated follow-up mechanism.

The lifting of the moratorium regarding death penalty as announced by the Congolese government on 3 March 2024, is very worrying. We strongly oppose the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, without exception. 

I thank you.